Young@Heart, Playing at Robinson Film Center

I was deeply moved by this film, Young@Heart. It's received 88% approval on Rotten Tomatoes. It's gained applause from blog circles. And, it's just bleepin' awesome.

The film mixes music and cinema, so it's appropriate to discuss it here.

The film follows a group of older people, average age 80, on their tour, learning new songs along the way. There's a great feel for the movie. While, yes, these people are old and experience health problems (none of which are hidden, btw) they are still determined to keep singing. They are full of so much energy. And don't think they're singing just any old tune. Try Coldplay, Sonic Youth, the Clash, and more.

Take Elaine, for instance, she's a 92-year-old woman living in a nursing home. She's the only resident with a key, because she gets back so late from performances. She doesn't drive; leave that to Lenny. Her and the filmmaker get into a very interesting conversation about being old and having men (the camera crew) in her bedroom. "Don't get nervous, just start taking something [clothes] off," Elaine responds. She's full of excitement and approaches many songs conservatively, seemingly impossible to learn. However, here she is, bouncing off solos left-right-center. The trailer (below) shows Elien belting out the first bit of the Clash's "Should I Stay or Should I Go?"

And I think I've realized the magic of the film. All these characters sharing their love for music. What music does to people. It is quite spectacular.

Has anyone seen it? Loved it? Hated it?

To purchase tickets, visit the Robinson's website.